Alethinophidia

Alethinophidia is a suborder of snakes that encompasses all snakes except for the boas and pythons. This means that the vast majority of snake species found worldwide belong to Alethinophidia. These snakes are characterized by a number of features, including the presence of a reduced pelvic girdle and hind limbs, though these are not always externally visible. They also possess a distinct skull structure that allows for a wide gape when swallowing prey. Alethinophidians exhibit a diverse range of reproductive strategies, with some species being oviparous (egg-laying) and others being viviparous (giving birth to live young). Their diets are equally varied, with many species preying on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and other reptiles. This suborder includes many familiar snake families such as Colubridae, Elapidae (cobras, mambas, coral snakes), and Viperidae (vipers and pit vipers). The evolutionary history of alethinophidian snakes is complex and has been the subject of much scientific study, with ongoing research aiming to clarify their relationships and diversification.